Grand Falls-Windsor: Where the River Shapes the Experience
Grand Falls-Windsor has always been closely tied to the Exploits River. The river helped shape the town’s early growth, powered its industrial development, and continues to be one of the best places to experience the area today. From the falls and salmon migration to rafting, trails, and riverside scenery, much of what makes Grand Falls-Windsor worth exploring starts with the water running through it.
A River Full of Life
The Exploits River is the longest and largest river on the island of Newfoundland, and today it supports a healthy population of wild Atlantic salmon. At the Salmonid Interpretation Centre, visitors can learn how the Grand Falls fishway helped open more of the watershed to migrating salmon and support their journey upstream to spawning habitat.
The highlight is the lower-level underwater observation area, where you can watch salmon moving through the river at close range. Interpretive displays explore the salmon life cycle, the Exploits River watershed, conservation efforts, and the Beothuk connection to the river, offering a closer look at the natural and cultural importance of this remarkable waterway.
Experience the River for Yourself
For a more active way to experience the Exploits River, Rafting Newfoundland has been guiding trips along the river since 1997. Visitors can choose from a relaxing float, a family-friendly whitewater run, or a higher-adventure option for those ready to get wet and take on bigger rapids.
For a view from above, Exploits Extreme Ziplines takes guests over the Exploits Canyon, offering a bird’s-eye look at the river valley and surrounding landscape. Together, rafting and ziplining show a very different side of Grand Falls-Windsor and make the river part of the adventure, not just the scenery.
Discover the Stories Behind the River
The Demasduit Regional Museum in Grand Falls-Windsor explores more than 5,000 years of history in Central Newfoundland, from early Indigenous cultures to the industrial changes of the twentieth century. Exhibits feature stone tools and other cultural objects, while sharing stories of the Beothuk, Mi’kmaq communities, early European settlers, and the people who shaped the region over generations.
Beyond the River: Stay a Little Longer
Grand Falls-Windsor has plenty to offer beyond the river. A wide range of accommodations, restaurants, shops, recreation, and community events makes it an easy place to spend a little more time, while its central location also makes it a practical base for exploring more of the Exploits Region. Check our local events calendar before your visit, as festivals, markets, performances, and seasonal activities can add even more to your stay.
The Exploits River is woven into much of what makes Grand Falls-Windsor worth exploring, from its wildlife and outdoor adventures to the history of the people and communities that grew around it. Spend some time along the river, explore the stories behind it, and you will quickly see why it remains such an important part of the town today.
Looking for some more inspiration? Visit the Grand Falls-Windsor Business Directory
to learn more about what they have to offer!